Sermons

The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead was a happy ending and was God's gift to humanity. But when it occurred, Jesus' disciples were transported into a new world. Jesus was the first person to rise from the dead, and take on a new spiritual body. Resurrection is normally understood as something that happens to you after you are dead and buried and find yourself in heaven. Yet, Jesus' resurrection took place on earth, which means it is now conected to human being who are alive on earth!"April 29, 2018 1".

The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead was a happy ending and was God's gift to humanity. But when it occurred, Jesus' disciples were transported into a new world. Jesus was the first person to rise from the dead, and take on a new spiritual body. Resurrection is normally understood as something that happens to you after you are dead and buried and find yourself in heaven. Yet, Jesus' resurrection took place on earth, which means it is now conected to human being who are alive on earth!"April 29, 2018 1".

We all have times in our lives when we feel like we have crossed over into No Man's Land, and we don't know where we are going. The conditions can vary, but the outcome is the same. We find ourselves passing over into a place of uncertainty and concern. And often doubt accompanies us on this new journey unto the unknown...But the good news is that we have not been forgotten!

The first Easter was filled with chaos and confusion. Jesus was alive, and he had been seen, but no one knew, for certain, where he was. And then he unexpectedly entered a room where his disciples were gathered, and their lives were forever changed.

Most of us recognize familiar symbols. When we see an image of fireworks, we know Independence Day is near. when we observe a tree decorated with lights and ornaments, we recognize that it is almost Christmas. But if these symbols were to be mixed together, it would cause confusion...On the day Jesus entered Jerusalem, the week leading up to his death and resurrection, he entered into a commonly know event, but brought new meaning to bear upon that which was familiar and expected.

We normally act out certain aspects of the Christian life which we have deemed most important, perhaps even being very strict in our discipline. But, at the same time we may ignore certain aspects of the Christian life that are dear to God. The story of Jesus being anointed at Bethany forces us to pause and consider what is most important, and how we are living the life of faith. "3-18-2018 1".

We feel threatened any time our well-being appears to be at risk or endangered. When we feel vulnerable to another force of some kind, acting against us, things can become frightening in a hurry. Only when we decide to orient out lives around the new life Jesus offers us, can we learn to deal appropriately with those things that threaten us. "3-11-18 1".

John 11:38-44Experiencing life's sorrows, setbacks and disappointments can cause us to fall into a chasm of confusion and resentment. It's easy to settle into this place and sulk. But Jesus never wants us to stay in the bunker, but rather, invites us to come out and start living again. "3-4-2018 1".

Although we can make plans and get things done, much of what happens in out lives is out of our control. There are many occasions when we wish our circumstances were different. But just because our living conditions are not what we hope for, God is still present and, as we pray, we are able to experience his grace and power.T2-18-18 1".